Girona Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences in Girona, Spain, with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Girona

Located in Catalonia, in Eastern Spain, Girona is a charming city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. The city’s old town, located on a hilltop overlooking the River Onyar, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and historic churches. Girona’s cultural heritage is evident in its many museums, galleries, and festivals, while its natural surroundings offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Girona

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Girona is home to numerous cultural attractions that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and artistic heritage. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places include:

  • Girona Cathedral: Built between the 11th and 18th centuries, the Girona Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It is home to an impressive collection of artwork, including famous tapestries and sculptures.
  • The Jewish Quarter (El Call): The Jewish Quarter in Girona is one of the best-preserved of its kind in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleys of this historic neighborhood, which dates back to the 12th century.
  • Museu d’Art de Girona: The Girona Art Museum is housed in a 10th-century Benedictine convent and is home to an impressive collection of Catalan art from the Romanesque to the present day.
  • Archaeological Walkway: The Archaeological Walkway is a unique attraction that lets visitors explore the underground Roman ruins beneath the city.

Natural Attractions of Girona: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Girona is also a haven for nature lovers, with numerous parks, gardens, and scenic areas to explore. Here are some of the best natural attractions in Girona:

  • El Jardí de la Infància: This beautiful garden in the heart of Girona features pergolas, fountains, and numerous varieties of plants and flowers.
  • The Onyar River: The Onyar River flows through the city’s old town and is lined with colorful buildings. Visitors can take a stroll along the riverbank or enjoy a boat tour.
  • The Gavarres Mountains: The Gavarres Mountains are a popular destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. The stunning scenery and diverse wildlife make it an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Girona

Girona and its surrounding countryside offer numerous hiking and cycling trails that showcase the beauty of the region. Some of the best routes include:

  • Via Verde: The Via Verde is a 40-km-long trail that follows the route of an old railway line. It is popular with cyclists and walkers and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Coastal Trail: This beautiful coastal trail takes visitors along the rocky shoreline and through pine forests, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea along the way.
  • El Camí de Ronda: El Camí de Ronda is a coastal path that stretches for 200 km along the Costa Brava. It is a challenging but rewarding hiking route, with breathtaking views of the sea and rocky coves.

Best Things to Do in Girona: Activities and Tours

Girona offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to all ages and interests. Some of the best things to do in Girona include:

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning scenery of Girona for a truly unforgettable experience.
  • Girona Walking Tour: A walking tour of Girona’s old town is a must-do for anyone visiting the city. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors can learn about the city’s history and cultural heritage.
  • Wine Tasting Tours: Catalonia is renowned for its wine, and the region around Girona is home to numerous vineyards and wineries. Visitors can tour the vineyards and sample some of the delicious local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Girona

With so much to see and do in Girona, it can be difficult to plan a comprehensive itinerary. Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to make the most of your time in the city:

  • Day 1: Explore the old town of Girona, including the Cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and Archaeological Walkway.
  • Day 2: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Gavarres Mountains and enjoy a picnic lunch in the countryside.
  • Day 3: Visit the Girona Art Museum and other cultural attractions, such as the Cinema Museum or the Game Museum.
  • Day 4: Hire a bike and explore the Via Verde or other cycling routes around Girona.
  • Day 5: Take a day trip to the Costa Brava and enjoy the beaches and coastal scenery.
  • Day 6: Sample some of the local wines with a wine tasting tour.
  • Day 7: Relax in El Jardí de la Infància or along the River Onyar before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Girona

No trip to Girona would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Coca de recapte: A traditional Catalan pastry made with peppers, onions, and other local ingredients.
  • Escudella i carn d’olla: A hearty stew made with meat and vegetables, typically served during the winter months.
  • Butifarra: A type of sausage made with pork, typically served grilled or fried.

Local Beverages

  • Cava: Catalonia is known for its sparkling wine, and Girona is home to numerous wineries that produce high-quality cava.
  • Ratafia: A traditional Catalan liqueur made from herbs and spices.

Where to Stay in Girona: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Girona offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Girona include:

  • Hotel Historic: A boutique hotel located in the heart of Girona’s old town, with stunning views of the Cathedral.
  • Pere el Gran: A family-run guesthouse with a beautiful courtyard garden, located just outside the old town.
  • Casa Cundaro: A traditional Catalan townhouse that has been converted into a stylish hostel.

What to Buy in Girona: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Girona is famous for its ceramics, textiles, and food products, among other things. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Girona include:

  • Ceramics: Girona is home to numerous ceramics artisans who produce beautiful, handcrafted pieces.
  • Textiles: The region around Girona is known for its high-quality wool and linen textiles, which are used to make everything from clothing to home furnishings.
  • Local Food Products: Olive oil, honey, and preserves are just a few of the delicious local food products that can be found in Girona’s markets and specialty food stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Girona

Girona has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals, traditions, and customs that are still celebrated today. Some of the most important cultural events in Girona include:

  • Temps de Flors: A flower festival that takes place in Girona’s old town every May, with stunning floral displays and installations throughout the city.
  • Processó de Sant Narcís: A religious procession that takes place every October in honor of the city’s patron saint.
  • Calaix de Sastre: An annual theater festival that takes place every summer, with performances in the streets and squares of Girona’s old town.

Best Time to Visit Girona

The best time to visit Girona depends on your interests and preferences. Summer is a popular time to visit, with warm weather and numerous festivals and outdoor events. However, the city can be crowded during this time, and accommodation prices may be higher. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s cultural attractions. Winter is the quietest time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a great time to enjoy the city’s cozy cafes and museums.

Do’s and Don’ts of Girona

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s old town, including the Jewish Quarter, Cathedral, and numerous museums.
  • Do sample the local cuisine and beverages, including coca de recapte, butifarra, and cava.
  • Do take advantage of the region’s outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and hot air balloon rides.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended, particularly in busy tourist areas.
  • Don’t wear revealing clothing when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Don’t forget to respect local customs and traditions, such as dress codes and etiquette in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Girona

Girona is a safe city, with low levels of crime and a strong police presence. However, visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Girona

Girona has a good healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and clinics throughout the city. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate travel insurance before visiting and should consult their doctor before traveling to ensure that they are up to date with any necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Girona: Transportation Options and Logistics

Girona is easily accessible by plane, train, or bus.

Airports Near Girona

Girona-Costa Brava Airport is located approximately 12 km from the city center and offers flights to numerous destinations. Barcelona-El Prat Airport is also an option, as it is located approximately 100 km from Girona and offers a wider range of flights.

Bus Stations Near Girona

Girona is well connected by bus, with numerous routes to other major cities in the region. The main bus station is located near the city center and offers services to destinations throughout Spain and beyond.

Other Options

Girona is also easily accessible by train, with regular services to other major cities in Catalonia and beyond. Driving is also an option, as Girona is well connected to the region’s extensive highway system.

How to Get Around in Girona

Girona is a walkable city, and many of the main attractions are located within the old town. For longer journeys, visitors can take local buses or hire a bike from one of the city’s many rental shops.

Where to Go Next from Girona: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Girona is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region, with numerous nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Some of the best options include:

  • Barcelona: Approximately 100 km from Girona, Barcelona is a vibrant city known for its culture, history, and architecture.
  • Costa Brava: A beautiful coastal region that stretches from Blanes to the French border, with numerous picturesque towns and beaches to explore.
  • The Pyrenees: A stunning mountain range that offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Girona is a city that has something for everyone, from history and culture to outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With our comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their time in this beautiful part of Catalonia and experience all that Girona has to offer.

Colorful houses hanging over the Onyar river Colorful houses hanging over the Onyar river Narrow Streets in Girona Narrow Streets in Girona The Collegiate Church of Sant Felix, as seen from the river Onyar The Collegiate Church of Sant Felix, as seen from the river Onyar